Job Creation Programme

asked the Secretary of State for Employment how many young people have been engaged to date in projects under the Job Creation Programme; how many have voluntarily left the scheme before the end of their contract period; how many have been dismissed before the end of their contract; and what procedures exist for anyone dismissed to appeal against dismissal.

I am informed by the Manpower Services Commission that approximately 22,000 people aged 16 to 24 have been engaged to date on projects under the Job Creation Programme. Information about the number of young people who have left voluntarily or were dismissed is not readily available. Employees working on job creation projects may appeal against dismissal under the agreed procedure of the sponsoring organisation and subsequently to an industrial tribunal if they wish.